Family Emergency Plan

Tornadoes. Fire. Flood. These are just a few of the calamities that might occur in our lives. Are you prepared? Take some of the stress away by planning ahead of time. Consider the following when creating your family disaster plan.

•  Make a Family Communication Plan. You and your loved ones may not be together when a disaster hits. Make a plan for how you will communicate with one another. Make sure everyone has contact information for family members, doctors, hospitals/clinics, police, fire and utility companies. Also note the local TV channels and radio stations with frequent news broadcasts. Get started on your plan.
• Designate a Family Meeting Place. It's terrifying to be unsure where your family members are in a time like this; having a plan in is the best way to eliminate that worry.You'll need more than one meeting place, because different types of emergencies create different needs. Set up places to meet within your house, your neighborhood, and if needed long distance.
• Discuss Shelter/Evacuation Plans. Taking appropriate shelter is critical in times of disaster. Sheltering is appropriate when conditions require that you seek protection in your home, place of employment or other location when a disaster strikes. To effectively shelter, you must first consider the hazard and then choose a place in your home or other building that is safe for that hazard. Learn more about the sheltering suggestions for each hazard.
• Build an Emergency Supplies Kit. One of the most important steps you can take to prepare for disasters is to create an emergency supplies kit. An emergency supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency. Try to assemble your kit well in advance of an emergency. You may have to evacuate at a moment’s notice and will probably not have time to search for the supplies you need or have time to shop for them. Learn more about what supplies to include in your kit.